Dublin Castle Tours

Dublin Castle which includes heritage architecture and street scenes
Dublin Castle showing a park
Dublin Castle which includes a park, heritage architecture and chateau or palace
Dublin Castle which includes heritage architecture, a castle and heritage elements
Dublin Castle which includes heritage elements, a castle and heritage architecture

Discover medieval excavations from a Viking ruin and appreciate the majesty of the state apartments, the chapel and the landscape gardens.

The 18th-century Dublin Castle is among the city’s most iconic sites. A small park with pretty floral displays lies behind the castle, which replaced a 13th-century Viking military fortress. Learn its fascinating history as the seat of British and Irish governments over the centuries.

Arrive in the spacious Georgian courtyard and snap photos of the historic castle. Gaze up at the Bedford Tower, which dates back to 1761. The façade has a bright green dome atop a clock tower. Note the Romanesque qualities, such as the stately columns and large pediment, of the base of the structure.

Look for the Record Tower, the only preserved part from the medieval castle that predated the current structure. Take a guided tour of the castle for a better understanding of its history. See relics from Vikings and browse the stately Georgian chambers. Enter the majestic Chapel Royal for its extraordinary Gothic revival interior. Today, the castle is used for state receptions and presidential inaugurations.

Stroll through the pleasant Dubh Linn Garden and appreciate its landscape designs. Visit the charming individual gardens that have colorful flowers and plants. The central lawn is circular with patterns of brick paths weaving through it. It doubles as a helicopter landing pad. Note the Celtic symbolism in the snake paths and maze gardens.

Purchase souvenirs and items with a castle theme from the gift shop. Snacks and refreshments are available in the Silk Road Café. Hear tales about the castle’s rich past, including the theft of the Irish Crown Jewels here in 1907.

The castle is open daily year-round except for a few closures for festive holidays. Visit between morning and late afternoon. The castle opens several hours later on Sundays. Select a guided-tour ticket for access to the State Apartments. Children and students get discounts.

Dublin Castle is on the southern side of the River Liffey in the center of Dublin in one of the most historical parts of the city. Take a bus to a stop in front of the castle. Visit the nearby attractions, such as City Hall, the Olympia Theatre and Christ Church Cathedral.

Plan a trip to see Dublin Castle

Price found within the past 48 hours. Click for updated prices.
Killeen Castle

Killeen Castle

3.5 out of 5
Price was $914, price is now $729 per person
$729
per person
Oct 27 - Nov 1
found 1 day ago
Roundtrip flight included
Boston (BOS) to Dublin (DUB)
9.6/10 Exceptional! (187 reviews)
Beautiful property and golf course

Reviewed on Aug 23, 2025

Hotel Riu Plaza The Gresham Dublin

Hotel Riu Plaza The Gresham Dublin

4 out of 5
City Centre Dublin
Price was $1,075, price is now $799 per person
$799
per person
Oct 16 - Oct 19
found 1 day ago
Roundtrip flight included
Boston (BOS) to Dublin (DUB)
9.2/10 Wonderful! (1,795 reviews)
Nice place. Nice location.

Reviewed on Aug 23, 2025

The Glendalough Hotel

The Glendalough Hotel

3 out of 5
Price was $920, price is now $741 per person
$741
per person
Oct 27 - Nov 1
found 1 day ago
Roundtrip flight included
Boston (BOS) to Dublin (DUB)
7.8/10 Good! (93 reviews)
I enjoyed my stay and the location is unbeatable! Very walkable to the monastic city and the hiking trails. I found the interior charming because it was retro - a bit like taking a time machine into the 90s. It was no frills, but it reminded me pleasantly of my childhood. If you're expecting something very modern and/or fancy, you might be disappointed, but I feel like the main attraction is Glendalough. I loved the restaurant here, the waiters were nice and the food was good! The hotel staff here were helpful and polite. The free breakfast was better than the reviews led me to expect. Not fancy, but decent considering it was free. The front desk seems unstaffed outside of the check-in period, but there is a really comfortable lobby hidden away behind the check in area, that you can rest in while you wait. If not for the location, I would have rated this 4/5, but thanks to the location, 5/5!

Reviewed on Aug 17, 2025

Browse tours and tickets to explore Dublin Castle

Tours & day trips

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Cliffs of Moher, Doolin, Burren & Galway Day Tour From Dublin

Cliffs of Moher, Doolin, Burren & Galway Day Tour From Dublin

Activity duration is 13 hours
9.4 out of 10 with 1153 reviews
Free cancellation available
Price is $88 per adult
Cliffs of Moher, Doolin, Burren & Galway Day Tour From DublinOpens in new tab

Private & custom tours

See all 120 activities
Full Day Private Tour of Dublin

Full Day Private Tour of Dublin

Activity duration is 7 hours
Price is $211 per adult
Full Day Private Tour of DublinOpens in new tab

Food, drink & nightlife

See all 72 activities
Dublin: Guinness Storehouse Entry Ticket

Dublin: Guinness Storehouse Entry Ticket

8.8 out of 10 with 175 reviews
Free cancellation available
Price is $35 per adult
Dublin: Guinness Storehouse Entry TicketOpens in new tab

Adventure & outdoor

See all 17 activities
From Dublin: Cliffs of Moher, Boat Tour & Aillwee Cave

From Dublin: Cliffs of Moher, Boat Tour & Aillwee Cave

Activity duration is 13 hours
8.0 out of 10 with 6 reviews
Free cancellation available
Price is $146 per adult
From Dublin: Cliffs of Moher, Boat Tour & Aillwee CaveOpens in new tab

Shows & concerts

See all 13 activities
The Irish Dance Party in Dublin

The Irish Dance Party in Dublin

Activity duration is 2 hours
9.4 out of 10 with 11 reviews
Free cancellation available
Price is $29 per adult
The Irish Dance Party in DublinOpens in new tab

Popular places to visit

Dublin which includes dining out, cafe lifestyle and street scenes

Dublin City Hall

After visiting Dublin City Hall, make a plan to see the other sights and activities in Dublin. Attend a sporting event or simply enjoy the lively bars while you're in the area.

Dublin City Hall
Smock Alley Theater in Dublin’s south side.

The Smock Alley Theatre

Get tickets for a show at The Smock Alley Theatre, a storied theater in Dublin. Attend a sporting event or simply enjoy the lively bars while you're in the area.

The Smock Alley Theatre
Christ Church Cathedral featuring a church or cathedral, interior views and heritage architecture

Christ Church Cathedral

This massive building on St. Michael’s Hill in the city center is one of only two Protestant cathedrals in Dublin.

Christ Church Cathedral
Dublinia

Dublinia

You can study the exhibits at Dublinia, a museum with a story of its own, during your travels to Dublin. Attend a sporting event or simply enjoy the lively bars while you're in the area.

Dublinia
Guinness and oysters...a must do in Dublin.

Dame Street

During your trip to Dublin, you can search for that perfect souvenir at Dame Street. Check out the top-notch restaurants or lively bars in this walkable area.

Dame Street
Downtown Dublin in sepia. Finished work, just leaving Temple Bar area on the way home, northside. Downtown Dublin is really small and manageable on foot. Best to get lost😃 #street #city #Dublin #walk #evening #sepia #wander #Irish life #Dublin Living #moment

Millennium Bridge

The Millenium Bridge, built to commemorate the start of a new millennium, crosses the River Liffey in Dublin, joining Eustace Street in Temple Bar to the north quays in the city centre. It has become an iconic symbol of Dublin, inspired by its timeless neighbours and designed with a modern twist, and is a point of interest for visitors to Ireland’s capital.

Millennium Bridge

Best Lodging Options Near Dublin Castle

Ruby Molly Hotel Dublin

Ruby Molly Hotel Dublin

4 out of 5
26 - 33 Arran Street East, Dublin
Ruby Molly Hotel Dublin
Marlin Hotel Stephens Green

Marlin Hotel Stephens Green

4 out of 5
11 Bow Ln E, Dublin
Marlin Hotel Stephens Green
The Mercantile Hotel

The Mercantile Hotel

3 out of 5
28 Dame Street, Dublin, Dublin
The Mercantile Hotel
Clink i Lár

Clink i Lár

2 out of 5
35-36 Abbey Street Upper. Dublin1, Dublin
Clink i Lár
The Grafton Hotel

The Grafton Hotel

4 out of 5
Johnsons Place, 31/32 Stephens Street Lower, Dublin, Dublin 2
The Grafton Hotel
citizenM Dublin St Patrick's

citizenM Dublin St Patrick's

4 out of 5
67-69 Bride Street, Dublin 8, Dublin, Leinster
citizenM Dublin St Patrick's
Wellington Temple Bar

Wellington Temple Bar

3 out of 5
23 Wellington Quay, Dublin, Dublin
Wellington Temple Bar
Hotel Riu Plaza The Gresham Dublin

Hotel Riu Plaza The Gresham Dublin

4 out of 5
23 Upper O Connell Street, Dublin, Dublin
Hotel Riu Plaza The Gresham Dublin
Staycity Aparthotels, Dublin, City Centre

Staycity Aparthotels, Dublin, City Centre

4 out of 5
Mary Street Little, Dublin
Staycity Aparthotels, Dublin, City Centre
See all 1,418 properties in Dublin Castle
Lowest nightly price found within the past 24 hours based on a 1 night stay for 2 adults. Prices and availability subject to change. Additional terms may apply.

Things to do near Dublin Castle

When visiting Dublin Castle, explore the vibrant entertainment district nearby, where you can enjoy various sports events and football matches. Take guided tours to delve into the castle's rich history and architecture. The area offers a lively atmosphere with plenty of activities to keep you engaged, making it a perfect spot for tourists looking to experience the essence of Dublin.

Food and drinks

For a taste of local flavors near Dublin Castle, visit the Guinness Storehouse, a lively brewery 0.8 miles away, or the Jameson Distillery Bow St., located 0.5 miles away, offering an entertaining experience. Don’t miss the Pearse Lyons Whiskey Distillery, 0.9 miles away, known for its charming atmosphere.

Shopping

For shopping near Dublin Castle, visit the Brown Thomas Flagship Store, just 0.3 miles away, for luxury gifts. The Dundrum Town Centre, 4 miles away, offers a vibrant atmosphere with family-friendly options. If you're up for a drive, check out Liffey Valley Shopping Centre, located 5 miles from the castle.

Recreation

Aviva Stadium, located 2 miles from Dublin Castle, offers an energetic atmosphere perfect for sports enthusiasts. The National Aquatic Centre, 6 miles away, is ideal for families seeking fun and relaxation in the water. For golf lovers, Luttrellstown Castle Golf, situated 7 miles from the castle, provides a scenic outdoor experience.

Adventure

At Clara Lara Fun Park, experience thrilling ziplines and ropes courses just 0.3 miles from Dublin Castle, perfect for outdoor adventure enthusiasts. For scenic hiking, explore the Bray to Greystones Cliff Walk, located 16 miles away, offering breathtaking coastal views. Don't miss Awesome Walls Climbing Centre, 5 miles away, for exciting climbing challenges.

Nightlife

Experience the vibrant nightlife near Dublin Castle by catching a show at the Bord Gáis Energy Theatre, just a mile away, or try your luck at the Fitzwilliam Casino & Card Club, only 0.9 miles away. For adventurous fun, head to Fort Lucan Outdoor Adventureland, 7 miles from the castle.

Find the best attractions near Dublin Castle

When visiting Dublin Castle, explore the captivating urban park and the historic castle itself. Discover family-friendly activities that immerse you in Dublin's rich culture. Nearby attractions include the enchanting Kilkea Castle and the impressive Kinnitty Castle, perfect for those seeking a deeper connection to Ireland's heritage. Don't miss the chance to experience the charming streets surrounding the area, offering a delightful mix of history and outdoor adventures.

  • Trinity College: Home to the stunning Book of Kells, Trinity College offers a rich dive into history and culture. Wander through its beautiful campus, admire the ancient library, and soak in the scholarly atmosphere.
  • St. Stephen's Green: This lush urban park invites you to relax among its gardens and ponds. Perfect for families, it features playgrounds and walking paths, making it a serene escape from the city's hustle.
  • Grafton Street: A bustling shopping street, Grafton Street is vibrant with street performers and a variety of shops. Enjoy the lively atmosphere as you explore local boutiques and cafes.

Best time to go to Dublin Castle

Visitor numbers around Dublin Castle is generally unchanged in popularity throughout the year. The best time to visit Dublin Castle can depend on the weather and when visitor numbers rise and fall. The hottest average temperature around Dublin Castle falls in July, when visitor numbers are slightly high and weather is mostly cloudy with light rain. The coolest average temperature around Dublin Castle falls in January, visitor numbers are average and weather is mostly cloudy with light rain.

calendar iconCalendar Monthtemperature iconTemperaturerain iconPrecipitationmostly cloudy iconCloudinessoccupation rate iconOccupancyprice iconPricing
January41.9°F (5.5°C)Light RainMostly CloudyAverageSlightly Low
February42.6°F (5.9°C)Light RainMostly CloudyAverageSlightly Low
March43.9°F (6.6°C)Light RainMostly CloudySlightly HighAverage
April46.8°F (8.2°C)Light RainMostly CloudySlightly HighAverage
May51.4°F (10.8°C)Light RainMostly CloudyAverageSlightly High
June56.3°F (13.5°C)Light RainMostly CloudyAverageSlightly High
July59.2°F (15.1°C)Light RainMostly CloudySlightly HighAverage
August58.6°F (14.8°C)Light RainMostly CloudyAverageSlightly High
September55.9°F (13.3°C)Light RainMostly CloudyAverageAverage
October52.3°F (11.3°C)Light RainMostly CloudySlightly LowAverage
November46.8°F (8.2°C)Light RainMostly CloudySlightly LowSlightly Low
December43.5°F (6.4°C)Light RainMostly CloudySlightly LowAverage

Booking tips and Expedia advantages for Dublin Castle

When visiting Dublin Castle, consider exploring nearby free attractions like Trinity College, St. Stephen's Green, and Grafton Street. For budget-friendly accommodations, book your stay in January, February, or November, when prices drop. Use Expedia to find last-minute deals, filter by eco-friendly options, and combine your hotel with flights for savings. Joining Expedia's One Key membership can unlock exclusive discounts and earn OneKeyCash for future stays. Don't forget to plan your transportation wisely for additional savings!

  • The most and least expensive months on average to stay in a hotel: The cheapest months to stay around Dublin Castle are January to February and November, where the prices are slightly lower. This is in comparison to May to June and August, where prices are slightly higher.
  • The best time to book a hotel: Book your hotel around Dublin Castle about 1 month out to secure some of the cheapest prices. If you're the spontaneous type, Expedia's last minute deals and discounts are indicated via the green label below the price.
  • Find cheap hotels on Expedia: Expedia's search tool makes it easy for you to choose your budget, desired location, and other preferences. You can arrange your search results to display prices from lowest to highest, allowing you to find the most affordable hotels right away. Additionally, you can refine your choices by hotel type; for instance, if you select the "Eco-certified" filter, you'll discover sustainable and environmentally friendly hotels that are ready for booking.
  • Consider bundling your trip: You can save money by combining your hotel stay at Dublin Castle with your flights and activities through an Expedia package deal.
  • Become a One Key member: Join Expedia's One Key membership program for exclusive discounts and deals on hotel bookings. You can also earn OneKeyCash to use on future selected hotels.